Race

Jeremiah 12:5-6 (Message)

So, Jeremiah, if you're worn out in this footrace with men,
what makes you think you can race against horses?

And if you can't keep your wits during times of calm,
what's going to happen when troubles break loose like the Jordan in flood?

Those closest to you, your own brothers and cousins,
are working against you.

They're out to get you. They'll stop at nothing.
Don't trust them, especially when they're smiling.

So...it's time to ask...

How's that resolution going?

Jeremiah's wasn't going too well. He was called and resolved to do the work of a prophet...to tell people things they don't really want to hear, on behalf of God.

He set about that work and suffered a lot of rejection and persecution. He began to complain to God.

"The world is against me. This is too hard. No one wants to listen. It can't be done."

God's answer?

"Jeremiah, you ain't seen nothing yet."

"If you're worn out in this footrace with men, what makes you think you can race against horses?"

He couldn't. And we can't either.

Sometimes, the world can be a tough place to do the right things and stick to what we resolve to do. That's because our own power isn't really sufficient. Jeremiah was learning that lesson.

So...let's make a resolution right now about what we'll do when "troubles break loose like Jordan in the flood" in 2008.

We'll turn to God...and ask for help...and let him drive.

That's when all things become possible.

Prayer: Lord, there are times when we feel tired, like we cannot run anymore. We know that the day-to-day demands of life can cause us to lose our way. We pray for help and new life from you. Fill us with your Spirit and help us to run the race in your strength, not our own.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be. World without end. Amen.

Tomorrow's Scripture: Jeremiah 15:19-20